Understanding When to See a Neurosurgeon: Key Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

The nervous system is a vital component of the body that coordinates and controls almost all bodily functions. If the nervous system does not function properly, your ability to think, feel or move normally will be affected. However, there are several neurological conditions that can disrupt it. In such circumstances, it is advised to schedule an appointment with a neurology specialist in Singapore to receive a prompt diagnosis and treatment. This article will explore the key symptoms of neurosurgical conditions and treatments offered by neurosurgeons.

Why and When to Consult a Neurosurgeon?

While neurosurgeons are well-known for performing surgery, they are involved in much more. They are experts in diagnosing and treating disorders that require nerve, brain, and spine surgery. Neurosurgeons usually treat the entire nervous system, which extends from the brain to the spine and then branches out to other parts of the body. Specific neurosurgical symptoms, while common, can be signs of more serious underlying conditions, such as symptoms of brain tumours. The following are some clear indicators that it might be time to visit a neurology specialist in Singapore.

1. Nerve Problems

Damage to sensory nerves can manifest as pain and numbness in your limbs or extremities. These nerves beneath your skin and muscles send signals to your brain, allowing you to touch, smell, see, and taste. They can get injured from accidents such as falls or collisions. Once damaged, nerves can cause numbness, weakness, tingling, and pain in the affected area as symptoms of disease or injury.

2. Head Trauma

Traumatic head injuries can lead to a variety of complications, including skull fractures, brain bruises, and hematomas or ruptured blood vessels. Both physical and cognitive symptoms, such as loss of consciousness, prolonged dizziness, chronic headaches, slurred speech, memory issues, and chronic pain, can be associated with these conditions. Experienced neurology specialists in Singapore can diagnose and treat symptoms of head injuries by removing hematomas and offering rehabilitation.

3. Impaired Mobility

If you have poor body movements, such as clumsiness, imbalances, tremors, lack of coordination, or other involuntary movements, it is advised to consult a neurosurgeon. These symptoms can be a result of spinal and head traumas, nerve diseases, brain tumours, strokes, or neurological disorders.

4. Seizures

Seizures are among the most common indications of a severe neurological condition. You can have a seizure as a result of abrupt electrical discharges from the brain, which can also cause tremors, loss of consciousness and odd sensations. While the most common illness that can lead to seizures is epilepsy, it can also be a sign of brain trauma or other serious neurological conditions.

5. Persistent Headaches

Even though some chronic headaches or migraines can be treated with prescription or over-the-counter medications, they can also be indications of more severe disorders. If you get daily headaches or migraines that are accompanied by light sensitivity and nausea, it is wise to consult a reliable neurology specialist in Singapore. These symptoms can be caused by aneurysms, brain tumours, or vestibular migraines. A neurosurgeon can help you determine their underlying cause and administer the proper treatment.

Common Neurosurgical Procedures

Depending on the nature and severity of the condition, neurosurgeons perform a variety of neurosurgical procedures. Here are some of the most common types of neurosurgical procedures.

1. Brain Tumor Surgery

This surgery involves removing brain tumours or abnormal growths. The procedure is carried out to remove the tumour entirely or as much as possible in order to relieve the pressure on the brain and prevent more damage.

2. Spinal Cord Surgery

During this treatment, tumours, herniated discs, and other anomalies in the spinal cord are removed. The surgery relieves pressure on the spinal cord and protects it from more damage while also improving function and movement.

3. Vascular Neurosurgery

This surgery treats blood vessel anomalies in the brain, including aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), and carotid artery disease. The purpose of the treatment is to prevent the blood vessels from rupturing or becoming blocked, which could lead to a stroke or other severe conditions.

4. Epilepsy Surgery

During this procedure, the area of the brain responsible for seizures in epileptic patients is removed. This surgery can be a viable option when medication fails to control seizures. However, after the operation, patients need to take anti-seizure medications for at least two years. Possible side effects of the surgery include memory issues, problems with vision, depression, and other mood changes.

5. Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)

DBS is a treatment that involves implanting electrodes in the brain to stimulate specific areas that control movement, such as those impacted by Parkinson’s disease or tremors. The procedure is used to treat patients whose symptoms cannot be managed with medication. While it is generally regarded as low risk, similar to any other surgery, DBS also carries the risk of complications, including headaches, infections and speech or vision issues.

Visit Advanced Brain & Spine Surgical Centre for Personalised Neurological Care

Early detection can make a significant difference in the treatment and recovery of neurological disorders. If you or someone you know experience any of the aforementioned symptoms, especially if they occur together, seek medical attention immediately.

The Advanced Brain and Spine Surgical Centre specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of complex neurological conditions. We are equipped with the required technology and techniques to offer you proper care, and our team is committed to delivering personalised treatment to help you regain your quality of life. Reach out to us and schedule a consultation with a neurosurgeon in Singapore to take the first step toward recovery.